Chateau Gruaud Larose was established in the 18th century in the commune of Saint-Julien, when Joseph Stanislas Gruaud united three of his estates under the name of “Fonbedeau”, also called Gruaud. He left the property upon his death to Monsieur de Larose, and in 1781 the name of the new owner was added to that of its predecessor.

When Monsieur de Larose died, the estate was divided among his heirs and the property was split into separate estates. Desire Cordier bought the first two shares, and in 1935 bought the last remaining estate. The property was then reconstituted covering 137 hectares of which 68 are under vine. The company changed hands in 1982, 1993, and again in 1997, when the Merlaut family, already owners of several Medoc cru estates, bought Gruaud Larose.

Today, the Gruaud Larose vineyard is composed of the noble Bordeaux varieties, dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon (60%), Merlot (30%), Cabernet Franc (7%) and Petit Verdot (3%). The average age of the vines of Gruaud Larose is about forty years, although the most ancient of these are nearly 100 years old.

This is a classic style from the Saint Julien appellation which was ranked a second growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification. The vines are planted on 82 hectares of Garonne gravel. Grapes are handpicked and matured for 16-18 months in French, fine grain, oak barrels. Annual production of the grand vin averages around 150,000 bottles.

Introducing the exquisite 2018 Gruaud Larose, a Bordeaux Blend from the renowned St Julien region in France. This red wine is a true gem, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the esteemed Gruaud Larose winery. With an alcohol percentage of 14.5%, it exudes power and elegance, promising a sensory journey like no other.

In the glass, the wine reveals a deep garnet-purple hue, captivating the eye with its rich and enticing color. The aromas that waft from the glass are nothing short of captivating. Notes of currants, blackberries, and dried flowers intertwine with hints of dark chocolate and tobacco leaves. A touch of citrus zest adds a refreshing element to the bouquet, creating a symphony of scents that delight the senses.

On the palate, the 2018 Gruaud Larose unveils its true character. It is full-bodied, with firm yet ultra-fine tannins that provide a velvety texture. The complexity of this wine is truly remarkable, with layers upon layers of ripe fruit flavors at its core. A juicy sensation sweeps across the palate, leaving a creamy and fine-tannined impression. The wine is impeccably balanced, showcasing the winemaker's expertise and attention to detail.

Renowned wine critic James Suckling awards this vintage an impressive score of 95, praising its complexity and silky texture. Wine Enthusiast also bestows a score of 94, highlighting its dense texture, powerful tannins, and youthful black-currant fruits. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate commends the wine's craftsmanship while acknowledging the impact of the heat and drought on the slightly rustic tannins.

The 2018 Gruaud Larose is a wine that is destined for greatness. While it is already delicious and well-crafted, it will benefit from a few more years of aging to soften the tannins and reveal further nuances. This wine is a testament to the artistry and tradition of Bordeaux winemaking, and it is sure to impress even the most discerning wine connoisseurs.

Indulge in the 2018 Gruaud Larose and experience the magic of St Julien in every sip. This wine is a true masterpiece that embodies the essence of Bordeaux elegance and finesse.